Cricket: Coughtrie shines but storm finishes match

Scotland’s tour match against North West Dragons was abandoned as a draw last night after a violent electrical storm struck Potchefstroom. However, the torrential rain did not arrive before a second recruit from the English county circuit got among the runs.

Following Sussex star Matt Machan’s century on Thursday, Richard Coughtrie staked his claim for an extended run in the side with a fine half-century. The Gloucestershire wicketkeeper stroked 53 as the Scots reached 150-2 in their second innings. There were also runs for Grange’s Ryan Flannigan who hit 47.

Resuming on 135-4 in response to Scotland’s 222, the Dragons managed to secure a first innings lead of almost 100 runs as the wicket flattened out. Coughtrie and Flannigan also took advantage of the easier batting conditions to leave coach Pete Steindl satisfied with the work-out. He said: “As practice matches go this was a useful one and some of the guys can take a lot from it.”

However, Steindl added: “Some of our bowlers are still a bit short of action.” The Scots continue their tour tomorrow with a 50-over encounter against the Dragons.